Next-Gen Nissan Murano Coming to New York Motor Show
Today, Nissan announced their intention to bring the next generation of the Nissan Murano to the upcoming 2014 New York Motor Show. Along with the announcement, Nissan offered a teaser image on their Facebook page, along with an online press release describing their intention for the new model. They even opened up a new page on their website so that fans can sign-up to receive advanced updates and first images of the new Murano when it’s unveiled.
So, what do we know about the next-gen Nissan Murano?
From a design standpoint, we know that the new Murano will be heavily based off of the Nissan Resonance Concept from this year’s Detroit Motor Show. Nissan is also presenting the model as their halo vehicle for all current and future crossovers and SUVs, as well as the first production vehicle to feature their new design language.
More specifically, the new Murano is expected to feature all the design hallmarks that Nissan has emphasized in their most recent concepts, from the V-motion grille to the boomerang-style LEDs and flowing, linear body. From the extremely short teaser video below, we can also see that the rear of the crossover will be very close to the Resonance in shape, complete with the sculpted taillights, kick-up beltline and a characteristically split C-pillar.
All in all, the design looks akin to a slightly toned down Resonance.
httpvh://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gN7HVt21KHY
In addition to an innovative exterior design, Nissan has also emphasized that the next Murano will be even more spacious than the current model. Their exact words were that the car will feature “a spacious, premium interior and advanced, purposeful safety and connective technology.” Although we’re sure that the interior of the Resonance – more than anything else – will be substantially toned down in the production Murano, you can still take a look at the Concept’s interior for reference:
Mechanically speaking, you can expect the Murano to inherit the new Pathfinder’s revised D platform. The new mid-size crossover will likely keep the same powertrain as the outgoing model, which is a 3.5L V6 with 260bhp paired with a standard CVT and either FWD or AWD. However, the Resonance Concept from Detroit showcased a new hybrid powertrain that could also make it to production. It was a 2.5L four-cylinder petrol engine integrated with two advanced electric motors and a new CVT, complete with a new lithium-ion battery.
Last but not least, the new Nissan Murano is expected to go on sale sometime this fall as a 2015 model year.
As you can see, despite the limited information that Nissan has provided us with, we can actually surmise a great deal about the upcoming Nissan Murano. What we know the least about is, without a doubt, the interior, but the Resonance gives us high expectations for that. Either way, the New York Motor Show opens doors on the 16th of April, so stay tuned for the full reveal next month.
Until then, thanks for reading!
